Southern California Condos for Better or Worse

Southern California Condos for Better or Worse

Reasons to Buy Condos vs. Detached Homes

Condominiums are a step above renting apartments because they allow owners to build equity and resell.  In addition, Southern California condos provide a sense of community in the big metro areas such as Los Angeles.   On the surface, condominiums are usually priced lower than similar homes and have a few extra amenities. Amenities usually include landscaping services, pool maintenance, fitness rooms, and building repairs – essentially a carefree lifestyle.

The quality of the condo association can make all the difference. Well-managed condominiums are organized. The Association sets aside reserve funds for capital improvements and regular maintenance such as painting.  And they keep up with everything.

Reasons to Think Twice About Condos

There can be some deal breakers in the condo lifestyle.  Some people love him and others regret their condo purchases.  Many do not like sharing walls or ceilings and floors with other people and they don’t like the outside noises that they have no control over.  Along the same vein, many of the condominium complexes share entrances, making the comings and goings of the residents fairly public.

Financial problems can add stress. Owners are responsible for repairs inside the condo.  And remember to factor in the ongoing costs of all of the amenities and services that are being provided.  Some Associations issue emergency repair assessments or thousands of dollars because they have no reserves. Then too, condominiums may be difficult to sell if several go on the market at the same time.

Luxury New Condominiums for Sale

So if you decide on a condo, why not go new?  Many of us like vintage and repurposed possessions; others prefer brand spanking new everything. So it goes for Southern California condos. New, of course, means updated design and technology. Brand new means gleaming surfaces without blemishes and the immaculate new appliances, new tile, carpet, and hardwoods, new plumbing, new fixtures. Buyers looking for new homes in Southern California may often get to the negotiation table in time to select colors and finishes.

In western Los Angeles, it is worth the time to check out these new condominiums for sale in Santa Monica, Venice, and Beverly Hills:

• 512 Brooks Avenue, Venice, CA
• 929 20th St., Santa Monica, CA
• 447 North Doheny Dr., Beverly Hills, CA
• Everly at Playa Vista, CA
• 460 Palm, Beverly Hills, CA

Established Condominium Complexes

Sometimes it is nice to be a part of an association that has a little experience.  Ask about the slightly used condominiums in the area, such as:

• 225 South Hamilton Dr. Unit 108, Beverly Hills 90211; 2150 square feet, $1.5 million
• 1046 Princeton Drive Unit 205, Venice 90292; 3030s square feet, $1,895,000
• 4080 Glencoe Ave. Unit 216, Marina del Rey 90292; 1530 square feet, $1 million
• 447 N. Doheny Drive Unit 400 to, Beverly Hills 90210; 3937 square feet, $3,950,000
• 939 20th St. Unit 5, Santa Monica 904 03; 2973 square feet, $2,885,000. Unit 7 1886 square feet, $1,850,000

California Condo Market

There are an increasing number of buyers in the condo markets.  Throughout the State of California, condominium communities and townhouse communities are in high demand, there are hundreds of floor plans ranging from 1 to 5 bedrooms. Prices range from the low $200,000-$20 million.

Southern California Luxury Real Estate Agent

For information about Southern California condos and luxury homes, please call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.